Uganda’s government has mandated bi-annual Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccinations for all livestock, a significant shift in its approach to disease control. The new policy, announced in Kampala, aims to prevent recurring FMD outbreaks and safeguard farmers’ livelihoods. Vaccinations will be administered every six months under a cost-sharing arrangement between the government and livestock owners. State Minister for Agriculture cited the need for proactive measures to protect the country’s cattle population and regional trade. This compulsory vaccination program represents a substantial investment in animal health and economic stability for Uganda’s agricultural sector. The initiative seeks to move beyond reactive outbreak responses to a preventative, nationwide strategy. Further details regarding the cost-sharing specifics were not immediately available.
